'She didn't know she had a cause until she was shot'

Dirk Perrefort, Robert Miller and Nanci G. Hutson

Updated 12:04 am, Saturday, June 15, 2013

NEWTOWN -- The voices of singing children echoed the Newtown mantra of "We Choose Love" and inspired some 300 people who gathered Friday night to mark the six-month anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy.

The late reggae singer Bob Marley's rendition of "One Love" even won an encore. The song was a fitting anthem to remember the 26 lives lost in the Dec. 14 shooting that changed this community forever.

Inside the sanctuary at Newtown Congregational Church, area residents, town and national leaders, and clergy of all faiths gathered for an evening of prayer, song, scripture and verse as they reflected on the power of love to heal.

Newtown Church of Latter Day Saints lay leader Deen Kensley shared a story about Sandy Hook first-grader Emilie Parker, one of the 20 children killed that day. Kensley described her interpretation of a Christmas tradition as a testimony of faith and hope that lives on today.

And the Rev. Leo McIlrath reiterated a version of the sentiments of First Selectman Pat Llodra when President Barack Obama arrived to comfort a grieving community on Dec. 16: "Newtown will not be defined by that terrible day. It's being defined every day ... with more love, more inclusion, more embracing," McIlrath said. "If we reach out, we'll be in reach."

A spectator wears Sandy Hook stickers and ribbons at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

A spectator wears Sandy Hook stickers and ribbons at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

6,003 is the number of people killed by gun violence in the last six months.
Connecticut officials and family members and supporters are gathered at the Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn, to mark the six months since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings with a Day of Remembrance. less

6,003 is the number of people killed by gun violence in the last six months.
Connecticut officials and family members and supporters are gathered at the Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn, to mark the six ... more

A firefighter comforts a distraught listener, as names of victims of gun violence are read, during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013.

A firefighter comforts a distraught listener, as names of victims of gun violence are read, during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds

Christian Wenis, of Sandy Hook, watches the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook.

Christian Wenis, of Sandy Hook, watches the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians

Miranda Pacchiana, of Sandy Hook, and her 11-year-old daughter, Isabel, a student at Sandy Hook, watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Miranda Pacchiana, of Sandy Hook, and her 11-year-old daughter, Isabel, a student at Sandy Hook, watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town ... more

Lisa Floros, of Newtown, and her daughter, Cecilia, 10, watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Lisa Floros, of Newtown, and her daughter, Cecilia, 10, watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June ... more

About 200 spectators watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

About 200 spectators watch the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families ... more

Jillian Soto, left, and Carlee Soto, younger sisters of slain first-grade teacher Victoria Soto, share a moment during the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook.

Carlee Soto, left, and Jillian Soto, younger sisters of slain first-grade teacher Victoria Soto, speak at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Gill Rousseau, left, is comforted by Carlee, center, and Jillian Soto during the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Gill Rousseau, left, is comforted by Carlee, center, and Jillian Soto during the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on ... more

Ed Edelson, first selectman of Southbury, speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Ed Edelson, first selectman of Southbury, speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

Gill Rousseau, father of slain Sandy Hook teacher Lauren Rousseau, hotos from the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Gill Rousseau, father of slain Sandy Hook teacher Lauren Rousseau, hotos from the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on ... more

A candle is lit at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

A candle is lit at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of ... more

Local faith leaders give the benediction at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Local faith leaders give the benediction at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ... more

Church bells ring at 9:30 am in Trinity Episcopal Church as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Church bells ring at 9:30 am in Trinity Episcopal Church as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town ... more

Gill Rousseau, father of slain Sandy Hook teacher Lauren Rosseau, speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Gill Rousseau, father of slain Sandy Hook teacher Lauren Rosseau, speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on ... more

A candle burns during the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

A candle burns during the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of ... more

Local faith leaders share a hug after the benediction at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Local faith leaders share a hug after the benediction at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, ... more

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks at the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ... more

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Newtown Hook and Ladder with Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue lower the flag to half mast as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy while the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ... more

Church bells ring at 9:30 am in Trinity Episcopal Church as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Church bells ring at 9:30 am in Trinity Episcopal Church as part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town ... more

As part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. Lindsay Knauf, of Newtown, photographs names on the Mayors bus. less

As part of the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy the Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. Lindsay ... more

The American flag at the intersection of Church Hill Road and Main Street in Newtown, Conn. is at half-staff on Friday, for the six-month anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the remembrance ceremony, followed by a reading of names of the 6,003 vicitims of U.S. gun violence since the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook. less

The American flag at the intersection of Church Hill Road and Main Street in Newtown, Conn. is at half-staff on Friday, for the six-month anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Politicians ... more

Names of the 6,003 victims of gun violence since the Dec. 14 Sandy Hook shooting are read at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. for the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony on Friday, June 14, 2013. Politicians and families of victims spoke at the event. less

Names of the 6,003 victims of gun violence since the Dec. 14 Sandy Hook shooting are read at Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. for the six-month anniversary remembrance ceremony on Friday, June 14, 2013. ... more

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

Aurora shooting victim Steve Barton speaks during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, ... more

A crowd listenes as names of victims of gun violence are read during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond Town Hall in Newtown, Conn. Friday, June 14, 2013. less

A crowd listenes as names of victims of gun violence are read during the observance of the six month anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy.The Mayors Against Illegal Guns holds ceremonies in front of Edmond ... more

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attends a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attends a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Lindsay Knauf takes a picture of the over 6,000 names of people killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown at a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Lindsay Knauf takes a picture of the over 6,000 names of people killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown at a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 45 of 73

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: An American flag is flown in Newtown on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. At an event at the Town Hall a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: An American flag is flown in Newtown on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. At an event at the Town Hall a ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 47 of 73

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Cecilia Floros, 10, of Newtown attends a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Cecilia Floros, 10, of Newtown attends a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 52 of 73

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Sam Dalipi sets up tables at the Town Hall in Newtown on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. At an event at the Town Hall a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Sam Dalipi sets up tables at the Town Hall in Newtown on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. At an event at ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 54 of 73

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 57 of 73

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Lindsay Knauf takes a picture of a bus bearing some of the over 6,000 names of people killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown at a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours.

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: Lindsay Knauf takes a picture of a bus bearing some of the over 6,000 names of people killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown at a remembrance event on the six month

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 60 of 73

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NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

Image 62 of 73

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: People attend a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence ... more

The iconic American Flag that sits at the center of Newtown, Conn. is lowered to half-staff by members of the Newtown Hook and Ladder Co. and Sandy Hook Rescue Friday morning, June 14, 2013. The town and state are marking the six-months since the Sandy Hook School shooting Dec. 14, 2012. less

The iconic American Flag that sits at the center of Newtown, Conn. is lowered to half-staff by members of the Newtown Hook and Ladder Co. and Sandy Hook Rescue Friday morning, June 14, 2013. The town and state ... more

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. less

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the ... more

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, top left, was among those in attendance at a service of remembrance on Friday evening. The service, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, and held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, in Newtown, Conn. marked six months since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. less

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, top left, was among those in attendance at a service of remembrance on Friday evening. The service, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, and held at the Newtown ... more

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. less

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the ... more

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. less

A service of remembrance, planned by the Newtown Interfaith Clergy Association, is held at the Newtown Congregational Church Friday evening, June 14, 2013, in Newtown, Conn. The day marked six months since the ... more

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: A girl wears a shirt with a message of peace during a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. A a 26-second moment of silence was observed to honor the 20 children and six adults who were killed at the school on Dec. 14. The event also included the reading of the names of over 6,000 people who have been killed by gun violence since the massacre in Newtown. The reading of names is expected to take 12 hours. less

NEWTOWN, CT - JUNE 14: A girl wears a shirt with a message of peace during a remembrance event on the six month anniversary of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School on June 14, 2013 in Newtown, ... more

Photo: Spencer Platt, Getty Images

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'She didn't know she had a cause until she was shot'

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Upon departure from the church, all were invited to sign a banner for the victims of the Oklahoma tornadoes, an act of generosity that the Rev. Matt Crebbins, of Newtown First Congregational Church, said is a way to show Newtown's love and compassion, and determination to "pay it forward."

The evening service in the heart of Newtown formed the emotional bookend to the day that started at 9:30 a.m., the moment six months ago that shots first pierced through Sandy Hook Elementary School.

In mid-morning, residents solemnly gathered in front of Edmond Town Hall -- leaning on each other for support, eyes red, sometimes crying openly -- to mark this somber anniversary of the tragedy that shook the town, the state, the country and beyond, and changed the debate about gun control, mental health and school security.

The day's events were part memorial service, part rally against gun violence. Throughout the day, area leaders were reading the names of the 6,003 people in the United States who have been killed by guns since the Sandy Hook shootings -- from Topeka and New Orleans, from Los Angeles and Silver Springs, Md.

Officials ticked off the names while standing in front of a bus from No More Names, the anti-gun violence organization. People will now ride the bus for the next 100 days to plead on behalf of gun control across the country.

"What is wrong with our country?" said Ruth Goodsynder, who sat listening as the names were read. "It doesn't seem things were so bad 30 or 40 years ago."

The morning began with church bells tolling 26 times -- one for each of the young children and educators who were killed on Dec. 14. As the bells chimed Friday morning, the talkative crowd gradually grew quiet.

Carlee Soto, sister of slain first-grade teacher Victoria Soto, wiped away a tear as she asked the hundreds gathered, many wearing green the Sandy Hook School color to observe a moment of silence.

She began to sob later in the program as volunteers started reading the names.

Southbury First Selectman Ed Edelson, who began the reading, paused for a moment as he looked at the crowd.

Also speaking was Stephen Barton of Southbury, who was injured in the shootings that killed 12 people at a movie theater in Aurora, Colo. on July 20.

Barton has spent the year working for Mayors Against Illegal Guns, rather that starting his Fulbright scholarship -- teaching in Russia -- a position he'll start in September.

Barton said he'll join the bus ride as it crosses the country.

"I'll be with it when it gets to Aurora," he said.

Henry Lopez-Cepero and Toni Earnshaw of Sandy Hook were in the crowd as the ceremony began. They were there, in part, to express their solidarity with the town, to bear witness, they said.

But, Earnshaw said, there was also the need to bear witness against gun violence.

"We're both here because we believe dangerous people should not have access to lethal weapons," she said.

"There should be universal background checks," Lopez-Cepero said.

Across the plaza in front of Edmond Town Hall, Barbara Kraushaar spoke of living in Sandy Hook for 27 years and raising her three children there.

Now, she said, when she drives around town, she sees her neighbors, who lost children in the shooting. She sees the green-and-white bracelets people wear, and the Sandy Hook emblems stuck to car rear windows. She knows that rooms where children once laughed are silent. The town, she said, seems changed forever.

"My daughter cries when she comes to visit," Kraushaar said.

"Today has been bad for me," said Anthony Genovese, a local lacrosse coach whose eyes were red from crying. "I still can't fathom that someone would want to kill such young children."

Jillian Soto, another sister of Victoria Soto, said the day of the six-month anniversary was at once trying, and a continuation of the tribulations her family now lives with every day.

"It wasn't like waking up and realizing it was the six-month anniversary," she said. "It was more like, okay, figure out how to get through this."

Instead of praying to God, she said, she prayed to her sister for strength.

"She was awesome," Jillian said of her sister, the teacher. "I feel bad that so many people didn't get to know her because she would have taken your breath away."

Gilles Rousseau, father of first-grade teacher Lauren Rousseau, said that six months ago he could have never envisioned becoming a public advocate for any cause. Even coming to Friday's ceremony, he said, he was tempted to turn around and drive home. But, he said, he felt he couldn't let family and friends down.

"It's for Lauren," he said of his daughter, who would have been 31 years old last Sunday.